P&R seeks power to fast track runway repairs

A committee has said it is looking to speed up the reconstruction of an airport runway so work can begin as early as possible next year.

States Members will be asked to delegate authority to the Policy & Resources Committee (P&R) to approve the final business case and budget of up to a maximum of £24m for Alderney Airport project.

The proposed work involves resurfacing and realigning the main asphalt runway, taxiway and runway at the airport, which Guernsey officials warned may need to close for an "extended period" to complete the scheme in the shortest time.

The States of Alderney said the provision of alternative transport arrangements would be vital to minimising disruption.

The proposed scheme involves the reconstruction of the asphalt runway, keeping it at its current length, but widening it from 18m (59ft) to 23m (75.45ft) to meet minimum aerodrome design standards.

It said a tendering process would begin depending on the outcome of a States debate expected to take place in February.

It added an extended closure of the airport may be needed to ensure the work was completed in the most cost effective way.

If this was needed notice would be given and arrangements would be made to provide alternative travel, including for emergency medical evacuations, said Guernsey officials.

There was a possibility the longer grass runway would permanently close, but the shorter one would be retained to provide alternative taxiway access to the main runway, they added.

However, it said both these runways were unlicensed and would not able to be used by commercial aircraft.

Bill Abel, chairman of Alderney's Policy & Finance Committee, said members looked forward to "working closely with Guernsey's Policy & Resources Committee and the States Trading Supervisory Board to ensure best value is achieved and the project is delivered as soon as practicable".

"This engagement will also focus on minimising the impact of closures and evaluate viable options to minimise the risk of closure of the grass runways, taking into consideration overall benefits to the island," he said.

Lindsay de Sausmarez, P&R President, said: "This project is vital to maintaining Alderney's connectivity for the benefit of the island's community.

"The approach we're recommending aims to deliver a compliant, practical and proportionate solution within the current fiscal constraints."

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